American Fuehrer: George Lincoln Rockwell and the American Nazi Party

By Frederick J. Simonelli

Book Overview

The founder of the American Nazi party and its leader until he was murdered in 1967, George Lincoln Rockwell was one of the most significant extremist strategists and ideologists of the postwar period. His influence has only increased since his death.

A powerful catalyst and innovator, Rockwell broadened his constituency beyond the core Radical Right by articulating White Power politics in terms that were subsequently appropriated by the one-time klansman David Duke. He played a major role in developing Holocaust revisionism, now an orthodoxy of the Far Right. He also helped politicize Christian Identity, America's most influential right-wing religious movement, and welded together an international organization of neo-Nazis. All of these extremist movements continue to thrive today.

Frederick Simonelli's biography of this powerful and enigmatic figure draws on primary sources of extraordinary depth, including declassified FBI files and manuscripts and other materials held by Rockwell's family and associates. The first objective assessment of the American Nazi party and an authoritative study of the roots of neo-nazism, neo-fascism, and White Power extremism in postwar America, American Fuehrer is shocking and absorbing reading.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0252022858
• ISBN13: 9780252022852
• Release Date: May 1999
• Publisher: University of Illinois Press
• Length: 232 Pages
• Weight: 1.37 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.8" x 6.3" x 9.2"

Customer Reviews

Must read to understand Rockwell, neo-nazis

A rare gem of a biography. Dr. Simonelli's work on George Lincoln Rockwell is difficult to put down. Solid work on Rockwell and his influence in the 1960s, and how his efforts can be seen in National Socialists today. Simonelli's research into Rockwell's death has angered some of today's neo-nazis, ... You may ask why you should read a Rockwell biography. Read it and find out why.

A best-seller waiting to happen

I would recommend Simonelli's book to anyone who has even a casual interest in American History. It is expertly researched and well-written, but most enjoyable for its overall lack of prejudice. Rockwell's history is presented in and of itself, and those who do not subscribe to Simonelli's portrayal of the man will find themselves arguing with facts.

Timely, deep and captivating reading

This book goes deep into the heart of George Lincoln Rockwell opening up the doors that lead to today's horrible hate crimes. I found the reading to be fast, thorough and very interesting. Good book and highly recommended!

excellent book!

Simonelli's book (which has gotten excellent reviews in Publisher's Weekly and Booklist) is a well-researched and serious study of Rockwell's role in the history of neo-Nazism in America by a professional historian who writes in a lively and gripping style.